I have decided to buck up finally after 3 years of racing and buy a new bike. I am currently riding a Specialized Allez which I have converted from its original road frame to a pretty decent tri bike… but it is time for a new one. I am attempting to graduate from years of sprints and olympics and move into the 1/2 and IM distances… heaven help me!
I am 5’11 and approximately 190 lbs and my bike size is somewhere between a medium and large. I am curious about what type of bike would fit me best… and am curious if there are better bikes out there for heavier, clydesdale type, guys.
Find a good fitter and discuss it with them, based on your proportions, the answer will vary. At 190 lbs., you are not that heavy.
If you can’t find a good fitter in your area, then look at the Yaqui bikes - the Ocotillo is perfect for bigger riders and reasonably priced. The benefit of these bikes is that they will fit you. Ves is the best at this, and will set you up with the right frame, the right stem length, the right seat tube angle, the right saddle height, etc. He lays it all out for you on a CAD drawing, you just need a tape measure to make sure the saddle is in the right spot once you get the bike.
I’ve ridden a Specialized Allez Carbon (58) since 1992. Just bought a Cervelo Dual (58) three weeks ago and 200 miles later. Not a problem. I did go through two fit processes… one for the Specialized last spring and then used that info and a fit for the Dual three weeks ago. Working with a good fitter and a shop that has a range of products was the key to my decision. Good luck.
Jay